One of the more common reasons people seek cosmetic treatment is related to the shade of their smile. We all desire a bright smile and can feel embarrassed having teeth stained with brown or yellow discoloration. Since the causes and severity of stains can vary, we offer three different ways to brighten smiles.
Teeth Whitening
Using professional teeth whitening we can target discoloration and remove stains, brightening teeth by multiple shades in about a week to ten days. Our treatment begins with an initial office treatment. Afterward, you will return home with a bleaching gel and a set of custom-made whitening trays. Each day you will wear the gel-filled trays for about an hour or two (or however long the doctor has recommended). After a week or so you will return to the office for a final treatment. You can keep the tags and remaining gel for future touch ups.
Cosmetic Bonding
We can use cosmetic bonding to mask discoloration. Some teeth stains may not respond well to whitening procedures, such as intrinsic stains (which form below the enamel). We apply a composite resin (the same material we use for white fillings) which the cures under a special light. The material can be shaded to better blend with the tooth structure. We can use this as a cost-effective means of masking stains. The procedure only takes one visit.
Porcelain Veneers
Veneers are thin shells of porcelain placed onto the front of the teeth. We can use them to completely change the shade and shape of the tooth. We can mask permanent teeth stains, reshape damaged/malformed teeth, close gaps between teeth, and even correct the appearance of minor alignment issues. If you have any questions about improving the shade of your teeth, then talk to our office today.
